All articles tagged with #mosquito borne illness
A woman in New York contracted chikungunya, a mosquito-borne disease rarely seen in the U.S., likely transmitted by Asian tiger mosquitoes that have expanded their range due to warmer winters, highlighting concerns about climate change and vector-borne diseases in the country.
Health officials are investigating a suspected case of chikungunya, a mosquito-borne virus, in a woman on Long Island, marking a potential new public health concern in the region, although the risk remains very low.
Fox News anchor John Roberts was hospitalized with a severe case of malaria, a mosquito-borne disease that can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. He experienced symptoms like uncontrollable shivering and widespread pain, initially mistaking them for the flu, but was diagnosed after a visit to the emergency room. Roberts mentioned he is likely the first malaria case his doctor has seen in the U.S., where about 2,000 cases are diagnosed annually.
The first West Nile virus death of the year has been reported in Kent County, Michigan, involving an adult with underlying health conditions, highlighting the ongoing risk of mosquito-borne illnesses during peak season and the importance of prevention measures.
West Nile Virus cases in mosquitoes are rising across Pennsylvania, including Philadelphia, with no human cases reported yet; health officials advise protective measures to reduce risk.
The CDC has issued Level 2 travel warnings for several regions worldwide due to the spread of chikungunya, a mosquito-borne disease causing fever and joint pain, with vaccination recommended for travelers to affected areas. Precautions include using insect repellent and protective clothing, as no specific treatment exists.
The risk of West Nile virus is now high in 10 Massachusetts communities, with mosquito samples testing positive and peak transmission season underway. Residents are advised to take precautions such as using insect repellent and avoiding outdoor activity during peak mosquito hours to protect themselves from infection, which can cause mild to severe illness, especially in vulnerable populations.
Chikungunya virus outbreaks have led the CDC to issue travel alerts for several countries, including China, warning of an elevated risk of infection from mosquito bites. The virus causes symptoms like fever and joint pain, and while severe cases are rare, vulnerable populations are at higher risk. China, particularly Guangdong province, has reported thousands of cases, prompting aggressive public health measures. U.S. travelers to affected regions are advised to take precautions such as using insect repellent and wearing protective clothing, with vaccination recommended for some travelers.
Italy has reported 32 cases and 2 deaths from West Nile virus in 2025, mainly in the Lazio region, amid a broader increase in mosquito-borne illnesses in southern Europe. The virus, transmitted by infected mosquitoes, often causes mild or no symptoms but can be severe for vulnerable populations. Measures are in place to control its spread, with most cases being asymptomatic.
Maricopa County has reported its first West Nile virus death of the year, involving an older adult with underlying health conditions, amid 17 confirmed cases. Health officials advise precautions like using insect repellent, eliminating standing water, and ensuring screens are intact to prevent mosquito bites and further spread.
A surge in dengue fever cases in the US, linked to climate change, is raising alarms as recent budget cuts to health agencies may hinder research and prevention efforts, potentially leading to a significant outbreak.
The Florida Department of Health has confirmed a fifth human case of Dengue Fever in Hillsborough County, prompting continued mosquito-borne illness alerts and aerial spraying efforts. Residents are advised to use insect repellent and eliminate standing water to prevent mosquito bites. The disease, while sometimes painful, is rarely fatal. The DOH is also monitoring other mosquito-borne illnesses across the state.
Latin America is experiencing its worst outbreak of dengue fever, a mosquito-spread virus, with cases also emerging in the U.S., including Alabama. The CDC reports local transmission in Florida, Hawaii, Texas, Arizona, and California. Dr. Wes Stubblefield from the Alabama Department of Public Health advises precautions like using insect repellent and wearing protective clothing when traveling to affected areas. Symptoms can include fever, headache, eye pain, muscle and joint aches, rash, and redness of the face or throat.
The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has declared an "emergency situation" in the Americas due to a surge in dengue cases, with over 5.2 million cases reported this year, marking a 48% increase. While Argentina and Brazil have seen a stabilization in cases, the outbreak remains severe. PAHO Director Jarbas Barbosa emphasized the limited availability of the dengue vaccine and cautioned that its impact on the current outbreak would take time. Dengue symptoms range from fever and headaches to severe hemorrhagic fever, and the illness has resulted in over 1,800 deaths in the region.
An outbreak of dengue fever, with over 4.7 million cases in 2024, is centered in Latin America and the Caribbean, fueled by climate change and El Nino. Symptoms include high fever, headache, and in severe cases, plasma leakage. Preventive measures include using mosquito repellent, wearing protective clothing, and eliminating standing water. The recent surge in global travel and climate conditions has led to a dramatic increase in dengue infections, with the Americas reporting the largest burden. While the continental U.S. is currently less at risk due to better infrastructure, the outbreak highlights the need for continued vigilance and prevention efforts.